People 6/11

Gita Manaktala joins as executive director on September 8. She was previously at Massachusetts Institute of Technology Press for over three decades, most recently as executive editor at large, after a tenure as editorial director.

Provost Angela V. Olinto said in the announcement, “Throughout her career, Gita has demonstrated an ability to expand the reach and impact of academic work while upholding the highest standards of intellectual rigor. At a time when universities play an increasingly important role in advancing knowledge and informing public understanding, I am confident that she will build on Columbia University Press’s extraordinary legacy and help shape its future with creativity, ambition, and purpose.”

Manaktala fills the position vacated when Jennifer Crewe retired earlier this year. Olinto noted, “Jennifer’s leadership strengthened the Press’s reputation as one of the world’s leading university presses while expanding its scholarly impact and global reach. We are deeply grateful for her many contributions to the University and the broader publishing community. I would also like to recognize Brad Hebel for his steady leadership as Interim Director of Columbia University Press and for his assistance during this important period of transition.”

Tiffani Ren joins as senior marketing manager. She was previously marketing manager at Tin House and Zando.

Larissa Helena has joined as associate director, publisher relations LATAM. She was previously head of content, North America at Yoto.

Lara Anderson has joined as permissions coordinator.

Manizeh Karim has been promoted to social media coordinator.

Emmi Shockley has been promoted to dramatic rights coordinator.

Jackie Garcia-Morales joins as associate literary agent and foreign rights agent, looking for kidlit across genres and formats, plus adult nonfiction in STEM and beyond.

Wes Miller has joined as executive editor. He was previously at Grand Central.